Infected PCs May Lose Internet in July

WASHINGTON – For individual home computer users, a few mouse clicks could mean the difference between staying online and losing Internet connections this summer.

The FBI is encouraging users to visit a website run by its security partner dcwg.org or go directly to DNS Changer Check-Up - Clean, which should immediately respond with your PC's status and include next steps you need to take if infected.

As of July 9, if your PC is infected , the PC will not be able to connect to the internet. This is a direct result of the November 2011 FBI actions taken against the hacker ring that had been running an internet ad scam on a massive network of infected computers.

Most victims do not know their computer has been infected. The government is providing this opportunity for individuals to clear or 'fix' their computers before the July 9 deadline. This unusual step is for home PC users in particular. Typically, corporations, companies and business entities have technology staff that routinely maintain and check computers and were notified earlier of the potential impact.

Many ISPs are notifying their customers directly and creating help pages to assist home PC users. The partial list includes, but is not limited to, AT&T, Bell Canada, Centurylink, Comcast, COX and Verizon. Please call your ISP for help or if you have questions.